Late Friday

It did not take long for the word to spread throughout the Abilene Christian University student body, alumni, family and friends that a bus carrying students and faculty had over turned on a two lane high way near Paint Rock, Texas. They were on their way to Medina Children’s home to participate in a Fall Mission Trip. They were on their way to make a difference in the lives of children who were expecting another amazing weekend with the group from ACU. You see, this bus load of students was carrying on a half century tradition of students giving of their time on a weekend to make a difference in the lives of others. There is no telling how many trips have been made down that exact same highway over the years.
This trip even though it was tragic is still amazing to me. It was late Friday and the world changed forever as one student lost her life and many others were injured and taken to various hospitals. The amazing part is what happened next.
Next, the ACU family went into action and reaction. The news spread quickly. Prayers were lifted up; a student body came together and stood together during this time of tragedy. They had lost a fellow student, friend, roommate, and classmate. The love for each other was shown in so many ways during the next hours and days. Life had been changed and this event even though tragic would still make a difference in the lives of so many. When people come together in the face of tragedy amazing things always happen, but the most amazing thing came next.
Next, on the following day the parents of the students gathered on the campus. Students spent time with moms and dads as well as close friends. They came together searching for comfort, peace and understanding. What they were given was a glimpse of amazing faith, love, and forgiveness. The mother of Anabel Reid came to Abilene Christian that day not to grieve the loss of her daughter, but rather she came to make sure that the driver knew that it was alright and she did not blame him for the accident or her daughter’s death. She wanted the driver to know that her prayer for him was that he would be okay and that he would not let this event destroy his life. That my friend is amazing. In her moment of tragedy she found a way to give hope and life to someone else.
It all began late on Friday 2000 years ago. Life would be changed forever. Love would be shown to all. Forgiveness would be given to those who hammered the nails. Forgiveness would be given to those whose sins had put him on the cross. Amazing grace, endless mercy, and true forgiveness is the message of the cross. God’s son would have to die so that you and I could live. God’s wants you to know just how much he loves you and just how much he wants you to live forever with him. Now that is Amazing.
Let us make every day count and let us look for ways to make a difference in the lives of others.
Love God. Go Love Others.